Meeting Baby Gator was an exciting experience for everybody except the gator, who displayed reptilian emotion.

Zoology Zone Science Center at Valley Park was filled with excitement on Friday, August 8, as the Center introduced a new resident — an 18-month old baby alligator. Unlike humankind, alligators do not reveal their gender when they enter the world. The new arrival’s temporary name is Baby Gator and will remain that way for another six months. Alligators must wait until their second birthday party before engaging in gender reveal festivities.

For a goodly number, the event was extra-extra exciting. There are few experiences which can match the first-time feel of touching an alligator. The event was more than exciting. For Lily’s Place, a facility in Huntington which treats babies born with substance addiction issues, the event provided needful donations. Donations were rewarded free admission to Zoology Zone. In addition to monetary gifts, suitable items included diapers (all sizes), pull-ups (all sizes), baby wipes, diaper cream, infant rattles/sensory toys, and all things appropriate for baby shower gifts.

Lily’s Place opened in 2014 in response to the growing substance use epidemic in Huntington to treat babies born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Lily’s Place offers private rooms with a quiet atmosphere and dim lighting, which are best for babies with NAS who are sensitive to light and sound. Over the years, the organization has expanded, and now provides resources for prevention treatment education, behavioral health and more. They have served more than 350 babies and families since their inception. For more information, go to https://lilysplace.org